It was 1981 and two artists, by chance or Fate, met and became friends. Their mutual respect for comic artist Jack "King" Kirby led them to work together on various projects... until that momentous evening when Kevin and Peter first sketched out the characters that would become our beloved TMNT.

The Turtles' beginnings were humble: they originated in a self-published black and white comic book that Eastman and Laird produced together in their homes. The initial print run of that first issue was only 3,275 copies, but word spread quickly and Kevin and Peter suddenly found themselves writing, drawing and self-publishing one of the most successful independent comic series of its day. The linked images below will transport you back in time to experience the original version of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird!

Click on the cover image to read a synopsis of that issue:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1

First Printing: May, 1984

The Turtles' origin is told.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2

First Printing: October, 1984

Turtles VS the Mousers.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3

First Printing: March, 1985

The great chase.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Raphael: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle #1 In a One-Issue Micro Series

First Printing: 1985

"Me, Myself and I"

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #4

First Printing: 1985

Rescuing Master Splinter.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Fugitoid #1

First Printing: 1985

The Fugitoid's origin.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #5

First Printing: October, 1985

Teaming up with Fugitoid.

By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Michaelangelo: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle #1 In a One Issue Micro Series